Surkotada is an important archaeological site of the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC), located in Gujarat, India. It provides crucial evidence about the extension of the Harappan culture towards western India.
Key Facts about Surkotada
1. Location and Discovery
- State: Gujarat
- District: Kutch
- Discovered by: J.P. Joshi in 1964
- Significance: One of the few Harappan sites where evidence of horse bones has been found.
2. Period and Culture
- Time Period: 2100 BCE – 1700 BCE (Mature Harappan Period)
- Cultural Phases: Belongs to the later phase of the Indus Valley Civilization.
3. Fortification and Settlement
- Fortified Settlement: Thick mud-brick walls for defense.
- Town Planning: Similar to other Harappan cities, with houses made of mud bricks.
- Water Reservoirs: Small reservoirs and wells found, indicating water management.
4. Economy and Trade
- Agriculture: Wheat, barley, and pulses cultivated.
- Animal Domestication: Cattle, buffalo, sheep, and horses (significant discovery).
- Trade Links: Connected to other Harappan sites like Dholavira, Lothal, and Mohenjo-Daro.
5. Artifacts and Excavation Findings
- Pottery: Red and buff-colored pottery with Harappan motifs.
- Beads and Ornaments: Semi-precious stones, shell bangles, and terracotta toys.
- Terracotta Figurines: Indicate religious and artistic activities.
- Horse Bones: Found at the site, sparking debates about the presence of horses in the Harappan civilization.
6. Decline and Abandonment
- Reason for Decline: Environmental changes, such as desertification and possible droughts.
- Migration Theory: Inhabitants likely moved towards other Harappan sites.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Where is the Surkotada archaeological site located?
a) Rajasthan
b) Gujarat
c) Punjab
d) Haryana
(Answer: b) Gujarat - Who discovered the Surkotada site?
a) R.D. Banerji
b) J.P. Joshi
c) Daya Ram Sahni
d) Mortimer Wheeler
(Answer: b) J.P. Joshi - What significant animal remains were found at Surkotada?
a) Elephants
b) Camels
c) Horses
d) Tigers
(Answer: c) Horses - Which feature of Surkotada suggests a well-planned defense system?
a) Granaries
b) Mud-brick fortifications
c) Underground tunnels
d) Watchtowers
(Answer: b) Mud-brick fortifications - Which phase of the Indus Valley Civilization does Surkotada belong to?
a) Early Harappan
b) Mature Harappan
c) Late Harappan
d) Vedic Period
(Answer: b) Mature Harappan
Subjective Questions
- Discuss the importance of Surkotada in the study of the Indus Valley Civilization.
- What evidence suggests that the Harappans at Surkotada domesticated horses? Why is this significant?
- Describe the fortification system found at Surkotada. How does it compare to other Harappan sites?
- What were the main economic activities of the people living in Surkotada?
- Explain the possible reasons for the decline of the Surkotada settlement.
This structured information, along with MCQs and subjective questions, will help you prepare effectively for competitive exams. Let me know if you need more details! 🚀